Apr 18, 2024

What if your Toyota was a high-performance athlete? It is, in a way. It tackles your daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between, and just like an athlete needs proper nutrition and rest to perform at their best, your Toyota also thrives with the right care. One key ingredient in the recipe for a long and healthy Toyota life is getting regular oil changes at your Toyota dealer.

How Often Do You Need an Oil Change at the Toyota Dealer?

The answer is usually somewhere between 7,500 and 10,000 miles these days, if you’re using synthetic oil. Newer Toyotas boast impressive engineering and often use synthetic oil, which is a real champion compared to conventional oil. Synthetic oil breaks down more slowly, allowing for longer intervals between changes, and it performs better in extreme temperatures.  

But that’s not the whole story because Toyotas are so legendarily reliable that there are still some quite old models out on the roads that were built before synthetic oil became the standard. If you have one of these classics, your intervals for changing the oil may be shorter: between 3,000 and 5,000 miles.

How Do I Know?

Consider your owner’s manual. It details the manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals based on your specific model year, engine type, and even factory-filled oil. Many newer Toyotas also have a helpful oil life monitoring system. This high-tech coach analyzes your driving habits and engine data and will switch on a light on your dashboard when an oil change is recommended. It’s a handy tool, but it’s not a substitute for consulting your owner’s manual.

You can also simply check the oil yourself. If the oil is starting to look dark, it’s getting filled with particles and needs to be changed. If it’s low, you’ll also want us to take a look at it.

Don’t Skip The Change

An athlete who neglects training eventually can’t perform, and a Toyota deprived of regular fresh oil suffers, too:

Increased Engine Wear

Without fresh oil’s lubrication, friction between engine parts increases. This gradual wear and tear can shorten your engine’s lifespan.

Performance Decline

Dirty oil is a sludge slowing down your engine. You might notice decreased power, sluggish acceleration, and even lower fuel efficiency.

Potential for Overheating

Degraded oil loses its ability to effectively cool the engine, increasing the risk of overheating and potential damage.

Conversely, if you get the oil swapped out regularly, you can expect your vehicle to keep running strong for miles to come. Fresh oil ensures smooth operation, maximizing your Toyota’s power and fuel efficiency.

Remember, a well-maintained Toyota is a happy Toyota that’s ready to conquer every road you travel. Contact us at Royal Moore Toyota in Hillsboro, OR today if you need any service!